The ‘Auswonder’ rose, also known as ‘Ambridge Rose’, is an English Shrub Rose by David Austin. Cherished for its classic beauty and reliable performance, it’s a popular choice for traditional landscapes.
Key Characteristics of Auswonder Rose
‘Auswonder’ blooms are soft apricot pink, fading to paler tones on outer petals. These medium-sized flowers (3.5-4 inches) unfurl into a very double, cupped, often quartered rosette. A strong myrrh fragrance with subtle citrus notes is a distinguishing feature.
The plant forms a moderately vigorous, neat, upright, bushy shrub with a rounded shape. It typically reaches 80-120 cm (3-4 ft) tall and spreads 70-100 cm (2-3.5 ft) wide. While reasonably disease resistant, especially to rust and black spot, it is susceptible to powdery mildew.
Planting Your Auswonder Rose
Choosing the right planting site is crucial. ‘Auswonder’ thrives in full sun, needing at least six hours daily for abundant blooms. The location should also offer good air circulation and be sheltered from strong winds to protect blooms and foliage.
Ideal soil is fertile, humus-rich, well-drained, and slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0). Prepare the soil two months before planting for amendments to integrate. Dig a generous hole, 18-24 inches deep, and incorporate ample organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil structure and nutrient content.
When planting, position the rose so the graft union (if present) is at or slightly below the soil line in colder climates. Backfill with prepared soil, gently firming it around the roots to remove air pockets. Immediately water thoroughly to settle the soil. For the first month, newly planted roses need consistent moisture; water every two to three days, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
Ongoing Care for Auswonder Rose
Consistent watering is essential for ‘Auswonder’ roses, especially in warm weather. Established plants benefit from deep, infrequent watering, receiving one to three inches per week (two to five gallons per plant). Water in the morning directly at the base, avoiding wetting foliage to minimize fungal disease risk. Adjust frequency based on environmental conditions and plant stress.
Roses are heavy feeders and benefit from regular fertilization. Begin feeding in early spring when new growth is 4-6 inches long, using a balanced NPK fertilizer. Repeat every two to four weeks throughout the active growing season. To promote root development and prepare for next year’s blooms, switch to a low-nitrogen fertilizer, like bone meal, in late summer or early fall. Cease all fertilization six to eight weeks before the first anticipated frost date to allow the plant to harden off for winter.
Pruning maintains the shape, health, and bloom production. Deadheading, the removal of spent blooms, should be performed regularly to encourage continuous flushes of new flowers and prevent energy expenditure on rose hips. Make cuts above a five-leaflet node and an outward-facing bud to direct new growth away from the center.
More extensive shaping and winter pruning are best done in late winter, after harshest frosts. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged wood, and any crossing or rubbing branches. The aim is to create an open center, improving air circulation and light penetration. For roses in colder climates (USDA Zone 6 and below), winter protection by mounding soil or mulch around the base safeguards the crown.
Managing Common Issues
Gardeners may face common challenges with ‘Auswonder’ roses, but most are addressable. Lack of blooms often stems from insufficient sunlight, as roses need at least six hours of direct sun daily. Incorrect fertilization, especially too much nitrogen, can also lead to abundant leafy growth at the expense of flowers. A balanced rose fertilizer, or one with higher phosphorus, can redirect energy towards blooming.
Fungal diseases like powdery mildew are a known susceptibility, though ‘Auswonder’ is reasonably resistant to black spot. Symptoms include powdery white coatings or dark spots on leaves, leading to defoliation. Prevent these issues by maintaining good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering, especially in the evening, to keep foliage dry. Promptly removing infected leaves limits disease spread.
Common pests like aphids and spider mites affect rose health by feeding on plant sap and young buds. Regular inspection helps early detection. A strong water spray can dislodge many soft-bodied pests; for significant infestations, insecticidal soap is effective. Maintaining a healthy rose bush generally increases its natural resilience against pest pressures.